Women experience armed conflict in diverse ways as victims, survivors, leaders and peacemakers. Violence against women in conflict-hit zones is often an extension of the gender discrimination that already exists during peacetime. Due to lack of status within society, women are systematically excluded from decision-making opportunities, they are often stereotyped as victims and their experiences and contributions are virtually ignored in conflict zones and in regions emerging from war. Despite this women can also play a significant part in peacemaking if they are properly supported and genuinely included. Far more men than women directly engage in armed conflict, which increases the responsibilities on women to maintain standards of care, health services, industry and agriculture. This work is often unpaid and goes unacknowledged. I shall discuss women’s roles in various conflict-hit regions starting with Manipur in the north-eastern part of India.

Manipuri women have been taking important roles in the society - in the context of economy of the State, critical social issues and political sphere which is somewhat unconstitutional but cultural, that flows down from the ancient bravery, patronage of culture, dedication, hard work and sense of responsibility. Nupi Lan, Meira Paibis, Nisha Bandhi, Manorama Devi, Sharmila Devi are some of the best examples of the strength of the Manipuri woman.

Despite the facts, there have been strong activities of women in the present society in Manipur as they fight against atrocities, injustice and numerous anti-social issues. With their untiring efforts, they challenge against any anti-social elements that would bring harm to the society. Besides homemaking and an occasional occupation to supplement their families, they strongly take part in agitations against the kidnapping of innocent persons for a ransom, killing among groups, and killing of people. Sharmila Devi continues to fast to this day in order to fight for her beloved Manipur’s cause.

It is indeed rare to see women standing their ground collectively in such a troubled region. Most of these women would not have heard the word feminism let alone being feminists. But they have done much more socially, politically and economically than any firebrand bra-burning feminist. In the following posts, I shall discuss the background of these ordinary and not-so-ordinary women’s courageous opposition to violence.